Computerized (GOTO) Telescopes

Starting to learn the night sky from a light polluted area is quite easy; only a few stars to learn and see. Viewing from a dark sky for the first time can be startling but confusing. With the assistance of a GoTo Computerized Telescope, the amateur astronomer can have their telescopes guide them through the night sky through a few basic initial steps (these steps can differ depending on what alignment system the telescope mount accepts). With a simple computerized hand controller, time and date must be entered (if there is no built in GPS system) and the observer must slew to two named stars so the computerized GoTo mount can calculate coordinates accurately. Always make sure the mount is properly balanced prior to alignment; helps in accuracy. Some of the most common alignment systems include the Celestron All-Star, Two-Star, Sky-Align, Meade AutoAlign, and Vixen's StarBook Ten.